subject: Easy Online Marketing Guide [print this page] Online marketing need not be complicatedOnline marketing need not be complicated. While it is true that certain strategies require a certain level of expertise and experience, most promotional activities on the World Wide Web today can be completed by any dedicated individual. Simple things can go a long way. In fact, these basics can even lay the foundation to your success over the long term. After all, no one cares more about your success but you.
Create a Business Profile
If you are re running a brick-and-mortar business, let people beyond your community know about it. For example, verifying the existence of your business in Bing Local, Yahoo Local, and Google Places can give your company a big boost. Take note that the verification process can involve postage or phone call to verify your address.
Upload Attractive Pictures
Directories and internet listing services make it a point to upload a picture for the featured businesses on the website. They might ask someone to take a business picture for you but there is no guarantee that the end result will be to your liking. One solution is to upload professional photos yourself to these websites.
Request Customers for Reviews
Majority of local review site encourage businesses to get reviewed. These reviews provide your business more integrity. And in fact, the more people comment about you, the bigger your business will look. It will come as a revelation to you to see how many people go out of their way to provide optimistic reviews. In your acknowledgment, invoice or email newsletters, post a URL where you can be reviewed.
Dont Completely Eliminate Bad Reviews
There are many SEO and Online Reputation Management companies that offer to take bad feedback down on certain websites. They are also experienced in dislodging negative results from search engines. But eliminating negative reviews altogether might not be a wise move unless the comment is extremely damaging to the company. No business is perfect; trying to project this illusion is bound for failure.
Include a Local Phone Number and Address
Having a phone number adds a touch of reliability to your website. It also gives the impressive that you take business seriously. A local number or address makes your business feel more personal and customer-oriented overall.
Put Yourself in the Customers Shoes
It is difficult to remain unbiased if your product/service is really something you believe in. While understandable, it is important to see the company through the customers eyes. Take a good look at your website, is it easy to navigate? Is the search function working? Do the products meet their needs? Meeting their expectations is the key to customer loyalty and profitability.
